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Dulce de Leche: One Recipe, Endless Sweet Ideas

5min
Dulce de Leche One Recipe, Endless Sweet Ideas

There’s something about milk-based desserts that just feels close to home. Whether it’s yema, leche flan, or pastillas, we’ve always had a soft spot for sweet, creamy treats. That’s why it’s no surprise that dulce de leche fits right in even if we’re only just starting to explore it more in our kitchens.

Made with just Carnation® Condensada, this rich, golden treat is proof that simple can still be special. With a little heat and patience, a familiar pantry staple transforms into something thick, silky, and full of that deep, caramel flavor we all love.

 

A simple recipe that goes a long way

Once you’ve made a batch of dulce de leche, it’s hard not to imagine all the ways you can use it. It’s one of those ingredients that  works with almost anything—whether you’re baking something for a special occasion, preparing merienda, or trying to elevate a classic dessert.

What’s good about it is it’s not intimidating, Dulce de leche is easy to make. Just simmer a can of Carnation® Condensada in a water bath for about two hours, no mixing, no measuring, no complicated steps. Once it cools and thickens, you’ve got a sweet, creamy base that’s ready to drizzle, layer, or spread.

 

Sweet ideas to try at home

Here are a few easy and delicious ways to use dulce de leche once it’s ready:

  • Filling for cakes or cupcakes
    Add it to the center of cupcakes or between cake layers for that surprise creamy bite.
     
  • Swirled into cheesecakes and brownies
    Before baking, swirl it into your batter for that marbled, caramel goodness in every slice.
     
  • Spread on toast or crackers
    Sometimes the best merienda is the simplest — a generous spread on warm toast or your go-to biscuit.
     
  • Drizzle over ice cream or halo-halo
    A spoonful of dulce de leche goes a long way in adding creamy sweetness to cold desserts.
     
  • Dip for fruits or churros
    Level up your snack time by using it as a dip for sliced apples, bananas, or homemade churros.

 

Something worth keeping

It’s not just about what dulce de leche goes with—it’s about what it brings to the table. That extra layer of richness. That unexpected swirl. That moment of quiet satisfaction after the first bite. For something made from just one ingredient, it makes a lasting impression.

Whether you’re preparing something special or simply treating yourself, keeping a jar of homemade dulce de leche nearby is a small, sweet reminder that the simplest things can often be the most memorable.